What You Need to be a Truck Driver?

Truck driving is a potentially lucrative job. It pays above average wages and gives people the opportunity to see the country in ways most people don’t get to. However, not just anyone can step up and be a truck driver. It requires training and dedication. Let’s look at some of the prerequisites before you can sit in the driver’s seat and take on the open road.

Understand the Industry

While being a truck driver is a lucrative career, it’s not easy. You will be away from your family a lot. It requires very long hours that are often sporadic and unpredictable. You will not have a normal schedule. It can be a strain on your marriage. However, it can work for some people. In short: don’t come to a decision before you talk it over with your family first.

Training to be a Truck Driver

Before you become a truck driver, you need to complete a formal training course. This will prepare you for your commercial driver’s license test, both written and physical. You will learn how to operate a truck, all the safety regulations and rules of the road, and maintenance procedures.

A Commercial Driver’s License

A commercial driver’s license or CDL is a definite requirement before you can get behind the wheel of a vehicle that weighs more than 26,000 pounds or carries oversized loads or hazardous materials. To get this license, you need to have an excellent driving record, along with good eyesight and hearing. You need to have full use of your limbs and be in good health. Normal blood pressure is a must. You need to be over 21 to drive from state to state and a clean criminal record, though the latter isn’t that important to some employers.

If this sounds like something you want to pursue, visit CDLLicense.com or give us a call at 1-800-TRUCKER. We can help you get the training you need and find employment for you once you have that CDL in hand!